Hey guys, I'll be studying in Fukuoka for a short 4-month exchange program from April onwards, and is considering to travel to Japan earlier for a short 1-2 weeks holiday. For some reason, I must always drop by the 3 major cities, Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto whenever I'm there so my itinerary should be based in the Kanto and Kansai area (also for accessibility of transport esp. international airports).
I have a friend who's interested in accompanying me, but I just received bad news from him that he can't commit because of work. I'm now in a dilemma because I'm not sure if I am adventurous enough to travel alone, with all the inconveniences (relying myself for every little thing e.g. keeping an eye on my luggage all the time etc). I've been to Japan 4 times (3 were with guided tours, 1 was free and easy with a friend) so I know my way around, but it's still slightly daunting to travel alone.
I know the answer should possibly lie in my own character and willingness, so you might think this is irrelevant in this forum, but please bear with me. I would greatly appreciate any advice or encouragement from people who have had the experience of traveling alone to Japan. I would also appreciate any recommended itineraries for lonely travelers e.g. avoiding the tourist-y places which make you feel lousy being alone whereas the others are happily touring in their groups (lol) and more of those peaceful, quiet not-as-well-known scenic spots where you can take your own time to absorb the atmosphere and culture, and perhaps do some personal reflections without much disturbance.
I've been to possibly all the major attractions at the 3 cities I've mentioned, including neighboring places such as Hakone, Nara, so I should want to go somewhere less renowned if I do intend to go. I've heard plenty of good reviews about Miyajima and I might be interested in checking it out (although it means I have to go further south. No problem because I'm heading to Fukuoka anyway, but money/hotels might be a problem because I'm intending Tokyo and Osaka to be my base cities for day-trips around those regions). And oh, I'm on student visa so I'm not eligible for JR passes. That stinks.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.